Hiking, fishing, camping, bird-watching, horseback riding, nature study, cycling, hunting, geocaching, stargazing – the South Florida Water Management District is the steward for more than 1 million acres of public land and much of it is open to the public for recreational opportunities.

In certain instances, a Special Use License, issued by the South Florida Water Management District, may be required for vehicle access to SFWMD lands with locked gates or for some activities, such as camping or horseback riding. The licenses are issued at no cost to the public. These areas have a maximum limit on the number of people who can use the recreation areas at a time, so it’s advised to apply for the license well in advance.

Hunting and fishing on SFWMD lands are managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) or other state, federal, county or city governments in partnership with SFWMD. Most licenses for hunting and fishing must be obtained from FWC.

Visit SFWMD.gov/Recreation for more information.